Nigeria Extends Condolences to China Following Devastating Landslide
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
The Nigerian federal government has expressed deep condolences to the people and government of China in light of a tragic landslide that struck Danchang County in Gansu Province, resulting in the deaths of at least 21 individuals and leaving several more injured. This message comes as Abuja reaffirms its ongoing and strategic partnership with Beijing during this challenging time.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Kimyebi Ebienfa referred to the incident as a heartbreaking tragedy. He emphasized that Nigeria stands in solidarity with China as rescue operations are underway to reach the victims and support the affected communities.
The landslide occurred on Tuesday in the mountainous region of Gansu, triggered by heavy rainfall that caused mud and debris to cascade down, burying homes and halting transportation in the area. Emergency response teams were immediately deployed to search for survivors, evacuate residents, and provide vital humanitarian assistance.
Ebienfa conveyed Nigeria’s heartfelt sympathies, stating that the nation shares in China’s sorrow over the tragic loss of life. “The Federal Government of Nigeria extends its deepest condolences to the Government and people of the People’s Republic of China following the tragic landslide that struck Danchang County, Gansu Province on Tuesday, July 7, 2026,” he noted.
The spokesperson further added, “Nigeria mourns the loss of life, with at least 21 individuals killed in this disaster, alongside others affected during rescue operations. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased, the injured, and all those who have lost loved ones and property in this unfortunate incident.”
In addition, he commended the swift actions of Chinese authorities and emergency workers for their quick response in rescuing survivors and providing aid to those in need. Ebienfa remarked, “Nigeria commends the Chinese authorities and rescue teams for their prompt action to save lives and furnish relief to affected communities.”
This incident also serves as a reminder of the robust diplomatic and economic relations between Nigeria and China, both of which benefit from their partnership. As one of Nigeria’s largest trading partners, China has been instrumental in funding key infrastructure projects throughout the country, including railways, airports, highways, and power initiatives. The two nations have further strengthened their cooperation in diverse sectors such as trade, investment, security, agriculture, and technological development under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership framework.
Reflecting on the historical ties between the countries, Ebienfa asserted, “Nigeria and China share a long-standing strategic partnership grounded in mutual respect and cooperation. We stand by China during this difficult period and have full confidence in the resilience of the Chinese people and government as they embark on recovery and reconstruction efforts in the impacted regions.”
He concluded by offering prayers for those affected by the disaster, stating, “I pray for the souls of those who perished, the swift recovery of the injured, and strength and solace for the grieving families.”
The tragedy reinforces the susceptibility of many mountainous areas in China to landslides and flash floods, particularly during the annual rainy season. Although authorities have bolstered early warning systems and emergency response protocols in recent years, extreme weather patterns linked to heavy rainfall still pose significant threats to life and infrastructure.
Nigeria’s expression of condolences resonates alongside messages of solidarity from various countries as the relief and reconstruction efforts continue in the affected regions of China.
